The Phillies’ aging core of stars is a huge topic after the NLDS champions were bounced from the playoffs by San Francisco.
Last offseason the Phillies exercised the $8.5 million club option on Jimmy Rollins for the 2011 season. However, there apparently won’t be another extension for the oft-injured shortstop. Rollins hasn’t been a consistent offensive force since his 2007 MVP season.
“We’ll probably let things at this time, play out,” Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said.
The Phillies have to be concerned about Rollins, who will turn 32 on Nov. 27. He has a lot of mileage on the odometer having played in at least 154 games each season since 2001, save the 2008 campaign.
His games played total in 2010 — at just 88 — was well below his norm. The same can be said for his career-low batting average (.243) and slugging percentage (.374).
How much did Rollins’ busy offseason impact his physical condition? Rollins attended three weddings between last year’s World Series and spring training, including his own. Still, don’t be surprised to find Rollins in great shape when he shows up at Clearwater, Fla., in February. He wants to remain here for years to come.
“Why would I want to leave? I love this clubhouse,” Rollins said. “This group of guys are great. We have a great manager we want to play for. We win. I grew up with this organization. It’s great to be a part of it. It’s all I know. I love playing here.”
